Transcendence

Chapter 8: Jolly Party

Two months had swiftly passed at the Altaria Guild since the cheeky multi-billionaire Andrea Vexus had tasked Team Awesome with helping the now convict Garganacl on relinquishing his business, thrusting them into the limelight of Siril's attention. The Vexus family's influential backing had propelled them from obscurity to notoriety, a transformation noted by all.

No longer relegated to mundane quests, Alex and Elton found themselves embarking on thrilling adventures that spanned Siril's diverse landscapes. Yet, despite their newfound fame, challenges persisted. At the Altaria Guild's training grounds, Frosslass' strict and brutally honest demeanor remained a formidable obstacle. Though progress had been made, Alex and Elton still found themselves occasionally frozen by her icy reprimands, their missteps disrupting their training.

Amidst their rigorous training regimen, Frosslass had identified latent potential within Alex, prompting them to experiment with a new technique that fixes Alex’s speed and Elton’s lack of power. However, each attempt ended in failure, underscoring the arduous journey ahead.

As the holiday season arrived, their room became cluttered with love poems from the infatuated Andrea who has since then sent him letters on a weekly basis. Alex, oblivious to the intentions behind the heartfelt verses, remained perplexed by the sudden influx of letters. His dense demeanor led him to interpret Andrea's affectionate words as mere platonic gestures, failing to grasp the depth of her feelings.

Yet, with the newest letter in his paw. Alex begrudgingly read as Elton managed to convince him yet again. While he was about to do that task, Farfetch'd, ever the curious observer, couldn't resist eavesdropping on Alex's reading session. With a mischievous twinkle in his eye, the duck pokemon listened intently, a knowing smile spreading across him.

As Alex unfolded the elegantly written letter, a cheesy poem greeted his eyes, its words dripping with unabashed romanticism:

"Oh, dearest Alex, with eyes so bright, In your presence, my heart takes flight. Through trials and quests, we journey together, Bound by fate's unyielding tether. Your strength, your courage, a beacon so true, In your embrace, I find my sanctuary anew. With every step, our bond grows stronger, In your love, I've found my forever." As Alex finished reading the poem, a soft chuckle escaped his lips at its unabashed cheesiness, momentarily forgetting to read the final sentence tucked away at the very end.

With a curious tilt of his head, Alex scanned the final sentence, written as a postscript. His eyes widened in surprise as he read Andrea's invitation to her Christmas party, held in Sylastral City. She extended an offer for him to call her if he agreed to attend, promising to arrange for her private jet to pick him up.

Before Alex could fully process the invitation, Elton interjected, his excitement palpable as he urged Alex to accept Andrea's offer. He painted a vivid picture of the legendary parties hosted by the Vexus family, known for their extravagance and unforgettable experiences. Just as Alex was about to respond, Farfetch'd barged through the door, interrupting their conversation.

Farfetch'd then nudged Alex, urging him to seize the opportunity and make Andrea his wife. His logic was simple yet pragmatic: by securing Andrea's affections, the Altaria guild would never have to worry about financial woes again, ensuring its perpetual existence.

Despite Elton's fervent persuasion and Farfetch'd's eager encouragement, Alex remained steadfast in his decision. With determination, he declined Andrea's invitation to her lavish Christmas party in Sylastral City, explaining that he would rather attend the festivities being held at Lust Beach.

Elton and Farfetch'd exchanged resigned sighs, accepting Alex's choice, albeit reluctantly. Farfetch'd, in particular, seemed disheartened by the outcome, his feathers drooping as he quietly lamented the missed opportunity for the Altaria Guild to bask in the Vexus family's wealth and influence.